There is a lot of free advice on the internet about the best thing you can do to prolong your AC unit’s life. However, not all of them are truly helpful. In fact, some of them are just perpetuating old myths on how to take good care of your AC unit. Still, reputable air conditioning repair service firms like Brown & Reaves Services, Inc. in Myrtle Beach, SC are only too happy to set the record straight and give honest and practical advice on how to maximize both the efficiency and life expectancy of your AC unit.

These are common misconceptions you probably believe and practice that often end up sending your AC unit to expensive repairs.

Turning Off Your AC Unit When You’re Not Home Will Save You Energy.

Turning the AC off when you leave then turning it back on as soon as you get home will not cut down your utility bills. All it does is increase the humidity inside your home making the air warmer and stickier than it should be. You have to remember, an AC’s function is not just to lower the temperature inside your house, but to lower the air humidity as well.

​So your air conditioning has broken down and you've placed a call to a local HVAC services company for a fix. You know they'll be out as soon as they can, but how do you keep your family cool in the meantime? Here are some tips and tricks to keep you comfortable until your AC is working again.

Any unusual smells coming from your HVAC system are most likely harmless, but it is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your family's safety. Read ahead for a quick look at some of the most common air conditioning system smells and what you can do to deal with or get rid of them.

If you sneeze all year long, or feel like you have constant congestion, itchy skin and watery eyes, the problem might not be outside. It could be the air conditioner filter sitting in your air handler. An air conditioner service company can replace your air conditioner's filter for you, but you can do this yourself each month so you can enjoy healthier air all summer long.

If you are thinking about upgrading your air conditioner you might want to consider replacing your heating system as well. Many homeowners tend to shy away from installing both at the same time in order to save some money, but this could be a mistake in the long run. In addition to improving the efficiency of your system, replacing both at the same time could save you from serious breakdowns in the future. A heat pump might even be your best bet.

As you receive your first winter heating bill, you’re likely to be looking for ways to decrease your energy costs. Even though the middle of winter is not the time most people think about their air conditioner, installing a new energy efficient AC unit could significantly lower your costs. To realize maximum savings, make sure your new unit is EnergyStar rated and is the right size for your home.

Depending on the unit type, the noise created by your air conditioning unit may have numerous causes. These noises can be a red flag that something might be wrong and it should not be overlooked. The type of noise you hear may indicate the type of issue you are dealing with. The problem may get worse when it is neglected and it may reach a point when it can no longer be repaired. Worsening noises may even suggest the damage is already irreversible.